Police, NBI asked to probe new investment ‘scam’

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – Governor Fredenil “Oto” Castro has asked PNP provincial director Police Lt. Col. Winston M. De Belen and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) provincial director Manuel M. Fayre Jr. to investigate another alleged investment scam operating in the province.

Castro made the request after learning that some persons were operating a new investment scam wherein “investors” were promised to double their money in just a matter of days.

He said the scheme could victimize more Capiceños and would damage the local economy.

“Please conduct an immediate investigation on the matter so that the illicit activity can be stopped and the persons involved can be identified and prosecuted,” the governor said.

Castro reminded the NBI Capiz that it is their duty to prove the “fraud-related and syndicated criminal activities” operating in their area of jurisdiction.

He is hoping that the NBI would validate the said report and identify the personalities involved including the verification with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Department of Trade and Industry if they have authority to operate.

Alleged investment scams have been rife in Capiz, particularly the scheme purportedly perpetrated by Patrocino “Doc Don” Chiyuto two years ago.

Chiyuto has denied scamming his province-mates even as the SEC cancelled the registration of his business.